This book explores the ways in which sociological arguments are constructed and presented, looking at what can be learned from the contrasting styles of sociologists working in different periods and theoretical traditions. Fundamental debates in the discipline are addressed, such as 'can sociology provide final answers?' and 'how far is detachment feasible or desirable?'. Finally, the book considers the practical significance which thinking about styles of argument has for all students of sociology.

Examining the role of home and family in the latter part of the 20th century, this book covers such subjects as the single parent, institutions and homes, the role of the mother in the family, and domestic architecture and domestic life. Graham Allan has also written "A Sociology of Friendship and Kinship", "Family Life" and "Friendship: Developing a Sociological Perspective".

Recent developments have made obsolete the division of the globe into three worlds of capitalist, state socialist and underdeveloped countries. This book traces the interconnectedness of the 'disorganisation' of capitalism in the industrialised west, the transformation of former state socialist societies, and the divergent fortunes of third world countries. It argues that comparative sociology continues to have relevance in the age of globalisation and provides a framework within which these developments can be placed in their proper perspective.

Revisiting divisions of labour is a reflection on the making of a modern sociological classic text and its enduring influence on the discipline and beyond. Ray Pahl's 1984 book is distinctive in the sustained impact it has had on how sociologists think about, research and report on the changing nature of work and domestic life. In this timely revisiting of a landmark project, excerpts from the original are interspersed with contributions from leading researchers reflecting on the book and its effects in the ensuing three decades. The book will be of interest to researchers, students and lecturers in sociology and related disciplines. -- .

First published in 1994. The sociology of community is currently undergoing something of a revival, and this book has been written with the aim of contributing to this process in a number of ways. First of all, it draws attention to the burgeoning literature on sociological aspects of community life. Secondly, its bring together the various studies considered here into a more coherent whole than they possess as simply a collection of separate pieces of research.

Patterns of household and family life are changing radically, leading sociologists to develop new conceptualisations and understandings of the relationships involved. This book examines the character of these changes, exploring the growing diversity there is in people's domestic circumstances. It is particularly concerned with the blurred boundaries between households and families, and the tensions that can arise in the solidarities and obligations experienced as household and family processes unfold.

Designed for undergraduate courses in social policy, social anthropology and sociology, this book looks at the sociology of community in contemporary Britain. The book surveys the growing literature on the nature of local social relationships, drawing on a range of recent empirical and theoretical work to illustrate topics ranging from economic change and geographical mobility to the relationship between social policy makers and community organizations.

First published Open Access under a Creative Commons license as What are Community Studies?, this title is now also available as part of the Bloomsbury Research Methods series. In the age of globalization and the changing welfare state, community relations are now more important than ever. This book gives an overview of the community studies field, with particular focus on the research methods used, and how they have evolved in recent years. Defining the key terms in the field, it outlines the history of the methods used in community studies and uses examples and case studies to illuminate the theory. This book captures the organization of modern community life and shows how current researchers are working with broader and more imaginative definitions of community. Responding to criticisms of the field, Graham Crow challenges our traditional notions of communities and how they are analysed. Graham Crow's text will be a vital resource to researchers in the field.

Examining the role of home and family in the latter part of the 20th century, this book covers such subjects as the single parent, institutions and homes, the role of the mother in the family, and domestic architecture and domestic life. Graham Allan has also written "A Sociology of Friendship and Kinship", "Family Life" and "Friendship: Developing a Sociological Perspective".

First published Open Access under a Creative Commons license as What are Community Studies?, this title is now also available as part of the Bloomsbury Research Methods series. In the age of globalization and the changing welfare state, community relations are now more important than ever. This book gives an overview of the community studies field, with particular focus on the research methods used, and how they have evolved in recent years. Defining the key terms in the field, it outlines the history of the methods used in community studies and uses examples and case studies to illuminate the theory. This book captures the organization of modern community life and shows how current researchers are working with broader and more imaginative definitions of community. Responding to criticisms of the field, Graham Crow challenges our traditional notions of communities and how they are analysed. Graham Crow's text will be a vital resource to researchers in the field.

Revisiting divisions of labour is a reflection on the making of a modern sociological classic text and its enduring influence on the discipline and beyond. Ray Pahl's 1984 book is distinctive in the sustained impact it has had on how sociologists think about, research and report on the changing nature of work and domestic life. In this timely revisiting of a landmark project, excerpts from the original are interspersed with contributions from leading researchers reflecting on the book and its effects in the ensuing three decades. The book will be of interest to researchers, students and lecturers in sociology and related disciplines. -- .

The contributors to this topical volume explore the role of family support in promoting the welfare of children and their families. They show how children can be supported in the development of their full potential despite adverse experiences. Family support enables children to access the variety of resources available to them in the multiplicity of contexts in which they live.;This book integrates concepts and experiences from an international perspective, different levels of analysis (society, community and family) and different loci of intervention (education, social services and local government). Specific areas covered include: principles of family and social support; social networks and social change in the family and the community; reciprocal; support between families,schools and the community; restoring the balance of control between parents and children; supporting young people who misuse drugs.;"Family Support" presents current knowledge about family support and sets out directions for future developments in thinking and service provision. It shows how an understanding of the complexity and potential of family support can inform and enrich the work of educators, professio